Calendar Projects: how to participate

Each year Dog Breed Designs presents a variety of Production Calenders for a variety of breeders in addition to several special projects.

Photo requirements for dog calendars:

  • no people
    (these are dog calendars, people detract from the goal)
  • uncluttered backgrounds
    (even the pros miss this sometimes; a great picture of your dog isn't as flattering if there orange construction fence in the background; unless you are an expert, DO NOT "paint" out the backgrounds)
  • be on level with your subject (that means you need to get down low)
    (being level gives your subject a more flattering look; some artsy angles are considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • outdoor photos preferred and encouraged
    (you get better light outdoors and it also reduces the chances of "eye-glow")
  • good, clean, clear focus is a must
    (blurry photos cannot be used)
  • landscape orientation is preferred
    (sideways, wider than tall; this gives more opportunity to fit in the variety of sizes used in the calendars; that means if you're using a camera phone, turn it sideways)
  • leashes - what to do about them?
    (when taking your pictures, try to make the leash as hidden as possible; staff has the tools necessary to remove them from the photo)
  • camera phones
    (the quality of the photos from camera phones has increased over the years; many, however, still do not meet the size and clarity requirements; they will be considered on a case-by-case basis)

What to submit:

  • original size photo
    (we need clear, high resolution, photos for print work; working with the original size photo that comes off your camera gives more opportunity that your photo makes the requirements)
  • uncropped
    (we have a variety of size requirements for the different calendars, sending a cropped photo limits where it can be used, thus limits the chances your photo makes the calendar)
  • unedited photos
    (some light post-production is acceptable; don't over sharpen or over saturate as it can detract from the rest of the project; photoshopped composits will not be accepted)

When to submit:

  • photos are collected throughout the year, so don't wait
  • final deadline for submittal is November 1st (or until the completed calendar appears in our gallery HERE)

Where to submit:

  • email to design (at) shilohshepherdboutique (dot) com
  • include calendar name you are submitting for in the subject line
  • your name, dog's name along with their sire/dam within the email


{Calendar productions are considered annually on an individual basis}
wildeshots banner on select photos does not appear in the purchased calendars

Contact me today about getting your project started. If you can dream it, we can make it a reality.